Chapter 71

"How do you feel?" Amy asked her friend as they came out of the salon. Gone was the blonde hair that cascaded down her back. In its place was brown hair, the shade of ground coffee. Mary had taken the advice of her hairstylist and had chosen that color.

"Like a million bucks." Mary beamed at her friend. They had arrived at the salon a little late, so they were the last customers, and the intensity of the sun had reduced.

"Yeah, you do. Although this will take a little time to get used to, I am used to seeing a freaking Barbie, and now you are just plain Jane. But nevertheless, you are still beautiful." Amy smiled, the corners of her eyes crinkling. She felt like a proud mom.

"I know, right," Mary said, flinging her hair at her friend. "I feel beautiful."

This past month with Amy has boosted her self-esteem, plus the attention she has been getting from people just has a way of making you feel good.

Gone were those baggy clothes she had on from the convent; they were replaced with c